Review of Sex Offender Treatment Programmes

A review of the literature on sex offender treatments was carried out for the High Security Psychiatric Commissioning Board (HSPSCB). The available research is varied in focus, methodology and quality, nevertheless there appears to be grounds for cautious optimism regarding the efficacy of treatment programs aimed at sex offenders. One conclusion of the review is that greater emphasis will need to be given to the idiographic and dynamic features presented by individual offenders in the provision and evaluation of treatment. Recommendations for programs dealing with the high risk offenders are offered.